Page 22 - Dentistry Viewbook

Research
The School of Dentistry holds as a guiding principle a commitment to lifelong discovery through research that innovates the practice and study of dentistry. Our programs in basic sciences, clinical sciences, and social and behavioral sciences and public health bring current research into the classrooms, clinics and dental practices statewide.
We are home to five broad research clusters, investigating the diverse aspects of oral health.
Behavioral, Public Health and Educational
Researchers aim to understand and ultimately reduce oral health disparities in rural and urban areas of
the state. Research questions range from how to reduce risk-related behaviors for early childhood cavities to how patients perceive the effects of dental intervention.
Biomaterials, Biomechanics and Technology
The School of Dentistry has a world-class reputation in the development and testing of dental materials, including restorations, adhesives, composite resins and devices. At the heart of this work is the Minnesota Dental Research Center for Biomaterials and Biomechanics (MDRCBB). Home to the world’s first artificial chewing machine, the MDRCBB is a leader in the simulation of oral challenges, the characterization of biomaterials, digital imaging technologies and more.
To solve problems like oral cancer, infections, viruses, cavities and periodontal disease, researchers aim to understand the oral microbiome, mucosal immunology, and viral structure and assembly. Our researchers have unraveled mysteries associated with the infectious process of bacterial viruses, informing the development of new drugs and treatments.
Systems Biology of the Orofacial Complex
Researchers range from basic bone biology to periodontal disease and dental imiplants to orofacial pain related to TMJ and cancer. Our experts study the cellular processes behind bone loss, with the goal of improving outcomes of dental implants, oral surgery, endodontics, orthodontics and more.
Clinical and Translational Research
Every discovery our researchers make has the ultimate goal of enhancing the state of oral health care for Minnesota and beyond. Researchers in the Clinical and Translational Research Cluster test new methods and products with the intent of transferring new knowledge and technological advances into patient care. Together, we enhance the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of oral diseases for the patients we serve.
Oral Microbiology, Virology, Immunology and Cancer